Model Q&A: Juno LTK

Where are you from? Where are you based now and do you travel for shoots?

I grew up on a ranch in a small town, like population of 100 and over 30 minutes to drive to a gas station kind of small, that you’ve probably never heard of in Central California. I moved to Oakland, California when I was 19 years old and I’m still based here today. I just recently started traveling for shoots, with trips to Los Angeles and New York. I’m really looking forward to traveling more and working with artists all over the world. Next up is my European tour this summer!

Who or what inspired you to become a model?

When I was 18 I did my very first professional shoot with Tiffany Helms, who I knew through mutual friends. She’s always been a huge inspiration to me, because her passion for modeling has shaped the way that she chooses to live her life and I think that is really beautiful.

When I began modeling full-time I was inspired by the ways in which I saw modeling’s effect on my own outlook on life. I found that being vulnerable in front of a camera (and in the face of the world) gave me a special kind of freedom that I’d never experienced before. I felt years of self-doubt, social anxiety, and body dysmorphia slowly fading away and it was so unbelievably liberating. I knew that I had to run with it.

Like most models that I know, I really stumbled upon this profession by chance. I had a friend in high school that would sometimes make me the subject of her photography class projects, but I never thought that I would become a model. Not long after that I had the amazing opportunity of working with Tiffany Helms and Trevor Magson (shatteredvortex), but it still just seemed like a one-off. Then, a little over three years ago, I was living with a signed model who posted photos of me on her social media, after which a handful of photographers contacted me hoping to work together. I was skeptical at first but my roommate convinced me to do it. Next thing I knew I was heading to photoshoots a couple of times a month. A few photographers that I worked with recommended Model Mayhem to me. Two years ago I quit my miserable day job and began freelance modeling full-time.

What type of modeling do you enjoy most?

That’s a tough question. I’m definitely always inclined to lean toward nude modeling because I feel that it allows me to embody the vulnerability that I hope to portray in my photos, but I’m not a huge fan of glamour or the hyper-sexualization of my body (but I’m totally 100% in support of everyone who is into that, though! Get it!). Doing art nudes in nature is always a plus, as I’m kind of an outdoor freak. There is probably nothing more euphoria inducing than posing in your birthday suit beneath a 75 foot waterfall!

The very first thing I look for when a photographer contacts me is the thoughtfulness of their messages. I’m interested in working with people who are able to elaborate their thoughts even if they don’t have a developed concept. Very few things are more frustrating than trying to plan a shoot with one sentence responses. I don’t even respond to “let’s shoot” anymore. And I always avoid people who use aggressive language. If they can’t respect you in an email, they can’t respect you on set!

Next, I take a look at their portfolio to make sure that my artistic interests are in line with theirs. If I see content in their portfolio that crosses any of my personal boundaries, I let them know and ask if they are open to working within my comfort zone.

I also check references, which is SUPER important! I definitely can’t stress that enough! Be safe first, always!

Which models or other artists currently inspire you?

I have so much inspiration right now! I feel bad because I’m definitely going to leave some people out but:

Kristy Jessica (Pure Rebel) has always been one of my biggest inspirations. Not only has she been freelance modeling for years, she’s also an amazing person! I’m inspired by her agenda to show that the imperfections of aging sexy and it’s so cool to see the ways in which sobriety has transformed her life. I can only hope to be as successful as her one day!

Lillias Right might be the most beautiful woman in this universe! She’s an advocate for body positivity and is definitely a feminine icon.

Theresa Manchester defies art nude norms as a tattooed model. She’s definitely paved the way for other tattooed models to be successful without having to fit into a specific niche. She’s also been creating beautiful photography and just put out a book, A Darling House. Modelographers for the win!

Sienna Hayes is the pose queen! I’m always looking at her work for inspiration before I go to shoots. She is like a living statue!

Nicole Vaunt is a nature goddess! She travels to the most beautiful places and makes completely unreal art. I’m constantly blown away by her photos!

One week in Iceland with no clothes, no agenda, and a handful of my favorite model and photographer friends!

How important is social media in your success?

Social media has definitely been a game changer. I have been using Instagram for a little less than a year now and it’s where I get the majority of my jobs! Instagram has opened some doors in regards to meeting and building relationships with other creatives. It also allows me to engage with and connect with people who enjoy my work which allows me to make secondary income by selling exclusive content and prints.

When I’m not modeling I’m usually doing all of the dang administrative work so that I can continue to model. Freelance problems!

When I’m not modeling and I’m not doing administrative work I’m usually laying around in some isolated forest with my nose in a book. I hike a lot, love to camp, and am always down to drive for ten hours to get to some place where there might be an epic adventure. When I’m outside you can usually find me with a film camera in my pocket, but I’m yet to photograph other models. At home, I make herbal remedies, sew, knit, and do other crafts.

What’s the best career advice you can give to new models?

Know your boundaries. Be assertive. Never be afraid to say “no.” Have an exit strategy. Be smart, be safe, and trust your gut. Be a good communicator. Be patient and kind. Be positive. Be willing to experiment. Be professional. Don’t flake. Don’t show up an hour late. Don’t show up with a hangover. Give your 110% every time. Set goals. Actively work toward your goals. Invest in yourself. Be financially prepared for slow months. Understand marketing. Study the craft. Utilize online resources. Respect other models. Don’t start public beef over petty drama. Call that creep out! Give honest references. Ask for references. Check in with yourself. Make time for yourself. Take care of yourself. Love yourself.

Before you quit your day job, know that it’s important to recognize how much time, work, and dedication go into being a full-time freelance model. If you can make it work, though, it is totally worth it! It’s definitely the most rewarding job I’ve ever had.

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